Housing:

Opportunities for Public Housing Authorities To Develop and Acquire Computer-Based Management Information Systems

IMTEC-84-13, Sep 28, 1984

Contact:

Howard G. Rhile, Jr
(202) 512-6418
contact@gao.gov

 

Office of Public Affairs
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GAO evaluated the practices followed by public housing authorities (PHA) in acquiring computer-based management information systems and the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) role in coordinating these acquisitions.

GAO found the present system of allowing PHA to independently develop and acquire computer-based information systems has resulted in systems that are unique and costly. Such systems do not take advantage of the potential for transferability and sharing of software applications that exists among PHA.

Status Legend:

More Info
  • Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.
  • Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.
  • Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.
  • Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.
    • Review Pending
    • Open
    • Closed - implemented
    • Closed - not implemented

    Recommendations for Executive Action

    Recommendation: The Secretary, HUD, to avoid duplicate and costly development and acquisition of computerized systems, should provide central management direction and technical assistance to PHA for the acquisition and development of computer-based management information systems.

    Agency Affected: Department of Housing and Urban Development

    Status: Closed - Implemented

    Comments: HUD established a new Information Services Division, within the Office of Public and Indian Housing, that will coordinate the provision of technical advice and guidance to PHA/IHAs on their acquisition of computer hardware and software. HUD is exploring the feasibility of developing a catalog and evaluation of computer hardware and software that is currently in use in PHA.

    Recommendation: The Secretary, HUD, to improve the reporting of financial and management information by PHA to HUD, should guide and coordinate the development of compatible automated systems to provide for the direct interface and linkage of the PHA and the HUD computer systems.

    Agency Affected: Department of Housing and Urban Development

    Status: Closed - Implemented

    Comments: The Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing (PIH) approved a management plan for PIH data systems to improve the timeliness and accuracy of budgetary, financial, and statistical data and the capability and effectiveness in providing technical assistance and guidance. The existing automated systems will be consolidated to collect and store high volume data reported by PHA.